Google Home vs. Amazon Alexa—which smart assistant is better?

If you don’t already own a smart home speaker, you’re probably thinking about getting one. These devices are incredibly useful and help make day-to-day life easier—from making internet purchases to unlocking your doors. And even if you’re already using one, it’s likely you’re wondering if it's the best assistant for your needs since both brands are continuously making changes. But when comparing Google Home vs. Amazon Alexa, which is better? Check out our post to see which home assistant you should spring for.

Amazon Echot Dot with a Clock and the Latest Google Home Max on Display

You want your home to be equipped with the latest technology. And these days, a smart home speaker that helps you organize your life and control your appliances is the way to go. But technology is always changing. If you’re scratching you’re head about what is the best smart assistant on the market today, don’t worry. Today, we’re comparing Google Home vs. Amazon Alexa to help you make the decision.

Related: These gadgets will help you make your home smarter

Like so many things in life, this choice, too, might come down to a matter of preference. According to Tech Radar, both assistants are similar. The one you select might depend on what product personality you prefer rather than which has the more advanced software, etc. But having said that, let’s take a more in-depth look at the assistants’ hardware, software, and security.

Which smart assistant brand has better devices?

In terms of devices, CNET says, “Amazon has the most well-rounded product line on the market, giving customers small, medium, and large options for both speakers and displays.” And, some of the more recent additions like the Echo Studio, received much better reviews than the competition from Google, which in this case was the Google Home Max.

On the other hand, CNET continues, although Google doesn’t boast as many products, the ones that they do have are excellent. Last year, Google redesigned its Nest Mini, developed a second-generation Nest Wifi, and updated its Nest Hub Max smart display. All of which are highly recommended. So while Google may not give customers a myriad of options, the ones they do offer are updated and solid.

Overall, Amazon seems more committed to innovating its hardware with products like Show 8, Show 5, Echo Flex, and Echo studio. Google keeps its products updated, but range small.

Who’s the better software innovator?

The positions reverse, however, when we’re talking about software. In this category, it’s Google who’s breaking barriers. CNET points to Google’s attempt to unify the Nest and Google brands last year, which did not go over well with consumers. However, the decision shows Google’s eagerness to go beyond what works to improve the technology as a whole. This is the reason Google’s software is so impressive across its range of products.

For its part, Amazon doesn’t seem to be doing much to advance smart home product technology. The brand’s open API allows other companies to easily adapt their system in contrast to Google’s more restrictive approach. However, CNET believes that success in the smart home field is about preparing for the future and Google, “…seems poised to build a more holistic vision for the smart home moving forward, given the variety of popular tools the company offers (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Search, Nest, YouTube).”

It does seem that Google wants to be a leader in terms of home assistant technology, and we’re excited to see where that goes. In the competition of Google Home vs. Amazon Alexa, Google is the clear winner here.

Will your privacy be protected?

In terms of security, both assistants have their issues. However, CNET notes that while both Apple and Google protect user’s privacy by default, Amazon still allows employees to listen to your recordings unless you opt-out. It does seem like a rather tricky move.

But Tech Radar points out that both assistants recognize your voice and the voices of other people in your home. This allows both assistants to adjust their responses depending on who is talking. So your kids won’t be able to use your instant payment methods and no one else, but you have access to your calendar.

In the end, we should be wary of any smart assistant. While Amazon can still send your voice recordings to its employees, CNET reports that Google also lets companies read your private emails. In the end, it’s the consumer who loses, and it’s something to keep in the back of your mind, especially when setting your privacy controls. Any time a company can put its ear on your conversations, the tendency is to use the customer’s information for gain.

So which home assistant is better?

So, when comparing Google Home vs. Amazon Alexa, which is better? If you need a lot of flexibility in terms of the hardware you choose and need a reliable device, Amazon Alexa is probably the best choice for you. But, if you want to outfit your home with software that is continually being updated and improved, we’d go with Google Assistant. Regardless of whether you choose for Alexa or Google Assistant, we’ve got some pretty cool gadgets to pair them with. These devices are compatible with both brands, so you don’t have to miss out either way.

August Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock

Whether you choose Google Home or Alexa, you’ll want to keep your home safe, and the August Wi-Fi Smart Deadbolt Lock can help. This smart lock connects directly to your home Wi-Fi network and lets you lock or unlock your door, check door status, and grant virtual guest keys wherever you are. It even enables you to see who is coming and going. This smart lock easily attaches to your traditional deadbolt, and it’s compact enough to be discreet. With your phone or your iWatch, this smart lock can sense when you are coming or going to lock or unlock the door for you automatically.

Jabra Elite Active 75t Wireless Earbuds

A great set of earbuds that work with both assistants is the Jabra Elite Active 75t Wireless Earbuds.  These waterproof earbuds can withstand the sweat from your workouts, and they have a 28-hour battery life. When it comes to music, these earbuds have powerful bass and intuitive volume controls. You’ll love the Jabra MySound, which lets you personalize your listening experience to your hearing.

C by GE Full Color LED Light Strip

If you want to add brightness to your home, install C by GE Full Color LED Light Strip. With their peel-and-stick adhesive, these lights are easy to place anywhere. Customize them by cutting the C by GE smart lights to the length you need. These smart lights let you set a schedule and control them via your Google Home or Amazon Alexa.

IKEA FYRTUR Smart Window Blinds

Easily control the amount of light that comes into your home with the IKEA FYRTUR Smart Window Blinds. This device makes it easy for you to lower and raise your blinds with the included remote. This gadget works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit for convenient control. You can also set a timer on the app and never waste time opening and closing your blinds again.

Kohler Konnect Sensate Smart Kitchen Sink Faucet

We’d all like a smarter faucet, and the Kohler Konnect Sensate Smart Kitchen Sink Faucet is one you can talk to. This gadget boasts voice-activation technology, which means you can use it with Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. The Sensate Smart Faucet also dispenses the correct amounts of water and includes two sprays to simplify your daily kitchen tasks.

So, in the great Google Home vs. Amazon Alexa debate, which camp do you fall in? Let us know yours in the comments below.

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